Missing-in-action Abueva suspended indefinitely
Eman Monfort, the smallest man on the court, finished with 14 points for NLEX. He played well against his former team, highlighting his stint with a high three-pointer over LA Tenorio.
But no other player finished in double figures for NLEX, which took its second straight defeat after a win over tailender Blackwater.
It looks like the Alaska Aces are running out of patience dealing with Calvin Abueva.
Invisible for over a week now, the 30-year-old forward was placed under indefinite suspension by management yesterday.
The move has raised doubts on whether Abueva, skillful and unpredictable, will be welcomed with open arms if and when he decides to return.
The last time Abueva showed up for an official PBA function was during the PBA All-Star Week. Then he had gone missing since.
Reports said Abueva is facing family issues.
“While the team understands Calvin may be going through some troubling personal issues, it does not obviate his responsibility to his team,” said team owner Wilfred Uytengsu.
The extent of the suspension, other than being “indefinite,” remains unclear because Abueva has a contract to honor with his mother team.
Other sanctions or penalties may come with the suspension.
“The Alaska Aces have placed Calvin Abueva on indefinite suspension following his more than one week absence from practice and failing to advice the coaching staff and management of his whereabouts,” the statement also said.
Abueva has not informed the team of his whereabouts although it was reported that he had gone up to Baguio, a chilly summer destination, to cool off.
Reports said he was ready to rejoin team practice yesterday. But before he could even do so, the team had announced his suspension.
It’s not the first time Abueva, also a member of Gilas Pilipinas, had gone missing in action, the first time having been during the Phl Cup last February.
No suspension was imposed that time.
The Aces also said it’s up to Gilas Pilipinas head coach Chot Reyes if he still wants the services of the former San Sebastian Stag.
Abueva had missed one game for the Aces, and will definitely miss today’s big game against the Magnolia Hotshots in the Commissioner’s Cup.
The Alaska Aces are on a hot streak, winning five games in a row, and looking good in the team standings heading to the quarterfinals.
With the suspension, Abueva needs more time to cool off.